In 2027, the Magic Round is set for a significant transformation as the Perth Bears join the festivities in Brisbane's rugby league event.
This addition will eliminate the bye week and, for the first time since its inception in 2019, Thursday night matches will be necessary for men's rugby league.
According to NRL CEO Andrew Abdo, the Women's State of Origin will take place in Townsville, contributing to a four-day schedule featuring nine games.
The Thursday night game in 2019 faced challenges in drawing crowds, and while the event has since gained popularity, attracting a large attendance on a Thursday remains questionable unless the Broncos or Dolphins are playing.
This situation likely means that one of these two teams will occupy the coveted Sunday prime-time spot, allowing local fans to stagger their attendance, while traveling supporters are expected to fill the stands on Friday and Saturday.
The league must also determine placements for the Gold Coast Titans and Melbourne Storm during the round, and New Zealand Warriors have consistently been a crowd favorite, likely to feature on either Saturday or Sunday in 2027.
With the elimination of byes, the NRL alleviates the burden of deciding which team will forgo participation that weekend.
It's important to note that home teams must consent to host Magic Round games, and most club contracts extend into 2027, though some modifications are anticipated.
Typically, Queensland teams do not serve as hosts (excluding the Titans this year), but the South Sydney Rabbitohs and Wests Tigers are expected to once again feature prominently in hosting duties.